Justice Minister must clarify future of Cork Garda Stations – Martin

3rd October 2011

Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin TD has called on the Minister for Justice Alan Shatter to dismiss speculation that he plans to shut down three garda stations in Cork city.

“Fianna Fáil is deeply concerned about reports that the Government plans to close as many as 200 garda stations nationwide. It is reported that the garda stations at Passage West, Barrack Street and Crosshaven are among those earmarked for closure,” said Deputy Martin.

“Local knowledge and being embedded in local communities is essential to the prevention of crime. Shutting down these three garda stations would be an extremely short-sighted move.

“I accept the need to reduce costs within An Garda Síochána in order to bring down public spending, but there is a way to do this without targeting certain communities and wiping out their garda resources. My fear is that closing key garda stations around the city will directly impact on the ability of the gardaí to protect local communities. In times of economic difficulty, crime rates tend to rise unless policing policy is managed correctly. One of the most basic requirements of a sensible policy is maintaining a strong Garda presence in the community.

“I am calling on the Minister for Justice Alan Shatter to commit to keeping Passage West, Barrack Street and Crosshaven garda stations open and to recognise the crucial role they play in keeping our communities safe.”

Hey Micheal Martin, whats this rubbish about you defending 180 Garda statements that didn't hold up in Court.. What strokes you trying to pulling in saving this broken institutions face.
A) Disband it, its too steeped in civil war politics.
B) Establish a new force with a separate investigative wing.
C) As the Police are a seperate institution to politics then make the new Commissioner an electable position to ensure public confidence instead of 'political' confidence (other countries do it)